What will an uninterruptible power system (UPS) primarily protect against?

An uninterruptible power system (UPS) is primarily designed to provide temporary power to equipment during a loss of electrical supply, such as when power flickers, goes out, or has voltage disturbances. Its main function is to ensure that systems remain operational during these interruptions, effectively preventing data loss and allowing for a proper shutdown of systems when needed.

In scenarios where there are brief interruptions or fluctuations in power, a UPS gives users the ability to maintain power for a short period, protecting against potential data corruption or loss that may occur if systems lose power suddenly. This is crucial in environments where sensitive data needs to be safeguarded.

The other options, while they may refer to potential risks in a broader context, do not align with the primary purpose of a UPS. For instance, a UPS does not protect against harmful gas exposure, physical damage to equipment, or overheating of components. Those concerns are typically addressed by different types of systems or protective measures within an operational environment.